Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of warm, golden banana bread that's so perfectly moist and fragrant, it'll transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. Betty Crocker's legendary banana bread recipe is not just a simple dessert—it's a slice of comfort that promises to turn even the most overripe bananas into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Get ready to discover the ultimate banana bread recipe that's foolproof, delicious, and guaranteed to become your new go-to baking sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth, slightly chunky consistency. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed throughout the banana mixture.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt, mixing thoroughly to combine. These ingredients help with leavening and enhancing the overall flavor of the bread.
- Add the sugar and mix until it is fully incorporated into the banana mixture. The sugar will help create a sweet, caramelized flavor and contribute to the bread's moisture.
- Beat the egg in a separate small bowl, then add it to the banana mixture along with the vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough, dense bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
- Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
- After 10 minutes, carefully turn out the bread onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Once cooled, slice the banana bread and serve. It can be enjoyed plain, with butter, or toasted for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose Very Ripe Bananas: The darker and spottier the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas that are almost completely brown.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense bread instead of a tender crumb.
- Check for Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test, but remember that a few moist crumbs are okay. You want to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the bread.
- Let It Cool Properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then on a wire rack, helps it set and prevents a soggy bottom.
- Store Smartly: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 3-4 days at room temperature, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Optional Additions: Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to make the recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
